Dallas Dog Bite Attorney

Dog bite injuries in Dallas, Texas are very serious offenses and can lead to severe injuries, mostly to children caught around a dangerous dog. Dallas dog owners must follow city and state ordinances regarding dangerous dogs and even ordinary dogs. If you or a loved one have been injured in a dog attack or due to dog bites, contact our Dallas dog bite attorney at The Benton Law Firmas you may have a claim against the dog owner.

Dog Bites in Texas

Texas initially followed a law prior to 2007 that allowed a dog to essentially get “one free bite.” This meant that the owner of a dog who bit a person one time would not face any liability from the bite. However, this law was changed in 2007 after a pack of loose dogs killed 76-year-old Lillian Stiles. A group called the Texas Families Against Dangerous Dogs worked hard to pass “Lillian’s Law” in 2007 which provides that the owner of a dog who causes a person injury or death may be found criminally negligent in failing to prevent the dog from escaping or if the dog is a known dangerous dog. The owner of the dog may face jail time. If the person is injured in the attack but does not require medical attention, the owner may be charged with a misdemeanor. If the dog severely injures someone, the owner may be charged with a third-degree felony and could serve up to a 10-year prison sentence. If a person is killed in a dog attack, the owner may be charged with a second-degree felony and may face up to 20 years in prison. Under Texas code, prosecutors must be able to prove that the injuries caused by the attack are fatal or caused severe impairment and must also prove that the owner was criminally negligent in not properly securing the animal.

While the Texas criminal laws regarding dog bites are now quite extensive to hold the owner of the dog negligent, the laws do not provide for compensation to the victim or the victim’s family. Bringing a claim in civil court can lead to compensation for your medical expenses, lost wages, or pain and suffering. Additionally, Dallas follows a leash law, meaning that a dog must be harnessed on a leash at all times when outside the house.

Contact a Dallas, Texas Personal Injury Attorney

Dog bites are potentially dangerous occurrences that happen far too often through the state of Texas. Dallas is no exception, and it seems like we hear about a deadly dog attack almost every month caused by a negligent owner. If you or a loved one were injured by a dog bite or dog attack, do not hesitate to contact our Dallas injury attorney at (214) 219-4878. While the Texas Criminal Courts may punish the dog owner for their negligence, this will not serve to make you whole again after an attack. A claim brought in civil court will assist you in further moving on after a brutal attack.

Dog Bite FAQs

Who is liable for dog bite injuries?

Dog owners are legally responsible for controlling their dogs. This means that owners must follow the leash laws and any other laws regarding dogs in the state in which they live or are visiting. In terms of dog bites, Texas is unlike many states in that it does not have a statute that covers a dog owner’s civil liability for damages caused by their pet biting another person. Instead, the Texas Supreme Court ruled in 1974 that the state would follow the rule in Section 509 in the Restatement of Torts. By adhering to this rule, Texas is considered a “negligence” or “one bite rule” state. In a typical dog bite claim in Texas, the injured party must prove that the dog owner knew that their pet was aggressive or dangerous and that the owner failed to reasonably control the dog or prevent the bite.

What damages are recoverable in a dog bite case?

If you or your family member has been injured by a dog bite, there are a few damages that may be recoverable in a lawsuit. The damage that is most likely to be calculated into compensation is any medical expense. This can include costs for surgery, hospital stays, ambulance transportation, and any other expense related to your medical care. You may also receive compensation for lost wages if your injuries forced you to take time off of work. Lastly, you may be compensated for your pain and suffering.

What should I do if I’ve been bitten by a dog?

Once you have had your injuries examined by a medical professional, it is important to seek legal help. As soon as you can, find a knowledgeable lawyer who has experience with dog bite cases. Your lawyer will be able to evaluate the incident and provide you with all your legal options. A strong dog bite lawyer will be an invaluable asset in your fight for financial compensation.

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$835,821.97 – Premises Liability

Jeff Benton represented a man who slipped and fell at a Taco Bell in Grand Prairie, Texas, that caused a severe back injury requiring surgery. At trial, the evidence showed that Taco Bell employees identified the spill, but failed to follow company policy that required an employee to stand by the spill to warn customers. The found the defendant 100% responsible and awarded damages for medical expenses, pain, mental anguish and impairment.